Norovirus: Stomach bug cases continue uptick in Massachusetts

GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – There continues to be an uptick in norovirus cases both locally and nationwide.

It is a highly contagious virus and the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea. It spreads from infected people, contaminated food and water, or surfaces.

The Greenfield Health Department today issued these tips to help limit the spread.

• Wash hands well with soap and water
• Clean and disinfect surfaces with bleach
• Wash laundry in hot water
• Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly
• Cook foods, especially vegetables and shellfish, thoroughly; norovirus is resistant to high heat, so steaming sometimes does not kill the virus
• If you’re infected, do not prepare food for others

There are no specific treatments for norovirus. Symptoms usually pass in one to three days but an infected person can continue spreading the virus several days later.

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